Speeding and Car Accidents
There are many dangerous habits that increase the risk of a car accident. While most people avoid the more obvious dangers of driving under the influence or texting while driving, many American drivers speed on a pretty regular basis. In fact, according to one Allstate survey, 89 percent of drivers admit they have driven at speeds above the posted speed limit.
Unfortunately, speeding and car accidents can be a deadly combination. Most car accidents result in property damage and personal injuries, but when one or more of the vehicles involved is speeding, injuries can be catastrophic, and many drivers and passengers are killed in high speed car accidents.
Attorney Randy Akin has handled many car accident cases involving speeding in Longview, TX and surrounding areas. He may be able to help victims of these types of accidents obtain compensation for their losses.
How Dangerous Is Speeding?
The high percentage of drivers who are willing to admit they have driven above the posted speed limit suggests that, by and large, drivers don’t recognize the potential dangers of speeding. Not only do drivers seem comfortable speeding, but many drive at excessively higher speeds than posted.
In the same Allstate survey, 40 percent of drivers reported that they have driven 20mph or more above the posted speed limit. Contrary to what seems to be the popular belief, speeding can greatly affect driving ability and increase the risk of a car accident.
Some statistics and facts that highlight the dangers of speeding include:
- Roughly one-third of annual car accidents are related to speeding
- In 2011, more than 25 percent of traffic fatalities were linked to speeding
- Speeding makes it easier for a driver to lose control of the vehicle
- Speeding increases the amount of time needed to bring a vehicle to a full stop
- Speeding decreases the effectiveness of occupant protection equipment
Tips for Avoiding Speed-related Car Accidents
Unfortunately, no one can control the actions of other drivers on the road. However, there are precautions that drivers can take to avoid being involved in a speed-related car accident.
Some tips for safety on the road include:
- Follow posted speed limits, but consider road and weather conditions as well. In certain conditions, even the posted speed limit could be too fast.
- Make space for speeding drivers. It is better to get out of their way than risk being nearby if they lose control of their vehicle.
- Always maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the one immediately in front of you. A good rule of thumb is to stay two to three seconds behind a leading vehicle.
- If a driver is being aggressive or tailgating your vehicle, call the police.
What to Do in the Event of an Accident
Unfortunately, even the best driving practices cannot always protect others from a reckless driver. Those who have been injured in a car accident caused by speeding should work with an experienced attorney, such as Randy Akin, to ensure their rights are protected. Mr. Akin will collect the evidence necessary to prove liability so that clients can be compensated for losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Learn More
If you have been involved in a car accident and have questions about your legal options, experienced attorney Randy Akin can help. Contact us at your earliest convenience to discuss the details of your case.